More than 350 students, alumni, professionals, industry leaders and community members were encouraged to “empower, lead and inspire” at Adelphi University’s eighth annual Women's Leadership Conference on Saturday, March 29.
In his opening remarks, Thomas Kline, EdD, vice president of University Advancement and External Relations, noted that Adelphi’s Women’s Leadership Conference is now one of the largest and most widely respected women’s empowerment summits in the area. The day’s activities supported the goals of embracing change, seizing opportunities and supporting one another as empowered leaders.
The first speaker of the day, bestselling author Kindra Hall, continued those themes, inspiring the audience to understand the “irresistible power of strategic storytelling,” not only in the workplace but also in their personal lives. All participants received a copy of Kindra’s book, Stories That Stick, thanks to the generous support of those who donated to the Adelphi Women’s Leadership Fund.
“I was so glad that this conference started with an eye-opening speech and we had a chance to meet this wonderful speaker,” said Çağla Civan, a double major in communications and psychology.
The event was topped off by a keynote discussion, moderated by President Christine M. Riordan, with Emmy-winning co-anchor JuJu Chang of ABC News, who shared her career journey in the media industry, including her experiences balancing motherhood with her ambitions to advance in her field.
Women’s Leadership Conference 2025
At Adelphi University’s Women’s Leadership Conference, on Saturday, March 29, professionals, industry leaders, alumni, students, and community members came together for a day of influential connections, compelling discussions and opportunities. Launch Gallery
Women’s Leadership Conference 2025
At Adelphi University’s Women’s Leadership Conference, on Saturday, March 29, professionals, industry leaders, alumni, students, and community members came together for a day of influential connections, compelling discussions and opportunities. 13 Photos-
President Christine Riordan speaking with conference attendees.
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President Christine Riordan and keynote speaker Juju Chang onstage at the Women’s Leadership Awards Dinner.
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President Christine Riordan in conversation with Emmy-winning co-anchor of ABC News Nightline Juju Chang.
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JuJu Chang and President Christine Riordan posing for a picture at the eighth annual Women’s Leadership Conference.
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Kindra Hall shares How to Tell Your Story with the audience.
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Attendees networking at the eighth annual Women’s Leadership Conference.
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Participants at the 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference taking advantage of the free on-site professional headshots during the conference.
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Dr. Christine Riordan, president of Adelphi University, presents opening remarks at the eighth annual Women’s Leadership Conference.
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Attendees enjoy brunch and networking.
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Powerful panelists share their stories during the “Taking Care of You” panel conversation.
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Conference Co-Chair LeeAnn Black ’83 moderates the “Imposter Syndrome” panel.
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Conference attendees listen and learn from the inspirational panels.
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Participants at the 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference enjoy a panel discussion.
Six Panels Offering Inspiration and Guidance
Participants had the opportunity to choose from six different panel discussions, led by powerhouses in their industries, who offered both encouragement and motivational steps on topics ranging from self-care and imposter syndrome to making career moves to launching side hustles.
During the day, students and working professionals lined up for free professional headshots and chose workwear from Adelphi’s complimentary Career Closet.
Supporting the Conference Into the Future
Later, during the awards dinner, Dr. Kline announced that the event had raised more than $100,000 to support this year’s conference, ensuring that the programming remains accessible to all members of our community. Additionally, he shared that the Women’s Leadership Endowed Fund has surpassed $1 million in gifts and commitments, a milestone made possible by generous donors, steering committee members, and especially the leadership gifts from LeeAnn Black ’83 and Loretta Cangialosi ’80, both members of Adelphi’s new Million Dollar Roundtable.
The Conference is inspired by Adelphi’s strategic plan, Momentum 2. “Creating a welcoming space for individual expression and growth within our community is a centerpiece of Adelphi’s mission,” noted Dr. Riordan. “As our Women’s Leadership Conference grows in impact each year, we are bringing our strategic goals to life by facilitating leadership through action and encouraging all students to engage in important conversations.”